what is a prime cat?

Stages of a cat’s life

I’d never heard of a prime cat until I read about Beatrix Potters new tale about “a prime cat”, so what is a prime cat? A prime cat is a stage of a cat’s life. It is the transition of your cat becoming an adult, which is between 3 to 6 years old, because it is considered the prime of your cat’s life. So if your cat is between 3 – 6 years old, your cat is a prime cat. During the prime stage, your cat’s personality is established, as are bad habits. So, if your cat is marking, not using kitty litter (after medical reasons are ruled out), are aggessive,  things like that, address them as soon as possible, otherwise these behaviors will be ingrained.

prime cat
Marnie is almost 4 years old
photo by shari smith dunaif © 2016

Prime cats continue to be playful. They retain some of their kittinish curiosity and energy, yet since they are adults, they can also gain a little weight. Just like us, they need a nutritious diet and plenty of exercise. Playing with you cat is the best way to provide the exercise they need: it’s good for your cat and fun for you.

playful prime cat
playful prime cat
photo by shari smith dunaif © 2016